Athletics world appalled by Boston Outrage

The International Association of Athletics Associations (IAAF), along with the worldwide athletics community, is shocked and appalled by the tragic events which have occurred in Boston today on the occasion of the city’s annual Marathon.

The sport of athletics offers its deepest sympathy and condolences to the families and friends of those killed and injured in this horrendous incident.

While the cause of the explosions is yet to be confirmed, the IAAF condemns this outrage.

Statement from IAAF President Lamine Diack:

“Our association mourns the loss of those killed in Boston, and offers its condolences and deepest sympathy to the families. Our thoughts are with them as they are with the large number who were injured.”

“This ghastly and cowardly attack strikes at the very core of the freest of human activities. Whether as a fun runner or elite competitor, road running exemplifies the honesty of basic human movement, strength and resilience.”

“We stand firm with the race organisers of the Boston Marathon, an IAAF Gold Label Race and the oldest marathon in existence, the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races and the people of Boston at this time of tragedy and condemn this mindless attack.”

“What makes this incident so vile and its planning so incomprehensible is that marathons the world over are about selfless acts of human generosity.”

“Millions of dollars are raised for charity every year by participants in road races. The events themselves are administered by thousands of volunteers who freely give their time to operate everything from baggage trucks to water stations to finish lines. The streets are lined with countless millions of spectators who selflessly simply wish to applaud, encourage and embrace the best of human endeavour.”

“There can be no excuse, no cause which can justify these explosions in Boston which so sicken us all.”

Source: IAAF.org